The PPG Industries Foundation, in partnership with the Pittsburgh Steelers, has donated $15,000 to Academics in Motion (AIM) to make this national program available in two Pittsburgh-area high schools – Steel Valley and Aliquippa. AIM operates in underserved communities across the country to address academic performance and personal development of students while encouraging them to use their passion for athletics as a vehicle to embrace values that lead to on- and off-the-field success.

“PPG is a strong supporter of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the academic interests of area high school students,” said Taunya Tinsley, regional coordinator for Academics in Motion. “We’re excited to partner with them to help impact the academic and athletic achievement of students in these two schools.”

PPG has supported the Steelers across various educational initiatives since 2006. Funding the AIM program provides student-athletes at Steel Valley and Aliquippa high schools an opportunity to work with a youth development coach (YDC) who helps address academic, career, social and emotional needs through the school year. Each school’s YDC provides one-on-one counseling, tutoring, life skills instruction and SAT/ACT preparation in addition to community service, college selection and other guidance to help improve students’ grade point average, graduation rates and athletic eligibility.

“PPG is pleased to help provide hard-working student-athletes in the Greater Pittsburgh community with much needed academic resources and support,” said Sue Sloan, executive director, PPG Industries Foundation. “Helping enhance the quality of life in communities where we operate is a hallmark of PPG Industries, and helping develop tomorrow’s workers and leaders through programs like AIM benefits both the region and companies such as ours that do business here.”